Gadnat a bad time

     Over the past ten days I have had one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Our vacation took us through Masada, the Arava Valley, Gadna, and Eilat. Although all of it was amazing, the trip to Masada and going through Gadna, a one week Israeli army simulation, changed many of my opinions on Israel and it's history. Before we arrived at Gadna, I was genuinely scared, mostly because I did not know what to expect. Some friends had told me it was bearable, while others stated that it was comparable to hell. However, no one told me that I would have the time of my life. Although there were terrible conditions, such as no hot water, one inch mattresses, and moist uniforms, the bonding that my team and I went through created deep connections that I have never had with anyone else. We all crawled, ran, and shouted as a team, and all got closer because of it.

    Also, Gadna taught me not only about the army, but also about Israel itself. During our time in the army, we discussed why so many Israelis are excited to go to the army, as opposed to the USA, where those who go to the army are considered the few bravest of the american people. In Israel, society is proud to fight for their country, which is something about Israel that I prefer over the united states. In Israel, everyone seems much more communal and generally closer together. Perhaps it's because they feel connected by judaism or Eretz Yisrael. I hope that this trait will soon be encorporated in united states culture. I wish that I could smile at strangers and not feel uncomfortable doing so in the United States.